Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is the on-demand provision of computational resources (data, software) via a computer network, usually the Internet or "the Cloud". Users or clients can submit a task, such as word processing, to the service provider, without actually possessing the software or hardware apart from a computer with a basic display, a keyboard and a mouse containing very little software or data usually a minimal operating system, a web browser and Internet connection.

Cloud computing can be viewed as a centralized and standardized utilities that freed users from the difficulties of acquiring and maintaining of the computing services. This translates to a reduced cost in software and hardware although there are fees related to the Cloud services. Savings in terms of dollars is yet to be seen.

The term "software as a service" (SaaS) is sometimes used to describe application programs offered through "The Cloud".

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